Insect Safety - Ticks

What are ticks?

Ticks are arachnids that are relatives of spiders. They live in wooded, bushy fields, and survive by eating blood from their hosts. It is important to be aware of ticks because they may pass infections from one person to another.

Are there different kinds of ticks?

There are 80 species of
ticks found throughout the United States. Find out what ticks can be
found in Cape May County on this page: Tickborne Disease

Am I removing a tick the correct way?

According to the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are 3 easy steps to
remove a tick safely: Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as
close to the skin’s surface as possible. Pull upward with steady, even
pressure. Make sure not to twist or jerk the tick, as this can cause the
mouth-parts to break off and remain in the skin. After removing the
tick, clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol, or with
soap and water.

How do I prevent Lyme disease?

The best way to prevent Lyme
disease and any tick borne disease is to use personal measures and avoid
ticks. Make sure to do a daily tick check.